Dutch Opposition Slams Government as King Calls for Unity Amid Political Deadlock
Opposition parties have accused the Dutch government of lacking direction and leaving the Netherlands in “stagnation” following King Willem-Alexander’s annual speech.
In his wide-ranging address, the king repeatedly called for compromise, cooperation and unity as the Netherlands faces major problems.
King Willem-Alexander said “communality” could be an “antidote to polarisation”.
He also called for solutions to major issues including nitrogen pollution, the housing shortage and social tensions surrounding asylum.
However, several opposition leaders said the government had failed to make clear choices or present a strong plan for solving the country’s problems.
“Politics is about making choices,” said JA21 leader Joost Eerdmans. “The king can say democracy isn’t 50% plus one, but that’s how it works in practice. They’ve forgotten to turn left or right, or else they can’t.”
Jesse Klaver, leader of the largest left-wing opposition party Pro, said the king’s “fine words” could not hide what he described as a government without direction.
“We are in a permanent process of forming the government because the minority government can’t agree on which way to take the country in.”
The criticism comes as the minority coalition of D66, CDA and VVD struggles to secure enough parliamentary support for its plans.
In the weeks before the opening of parliament, the three coalition parties were unable to agree on what concessions they should offer opposition parties as part of negotiations over the budget.
The government needs support from opposition lawmakers to pass legislation. It needs another 10 seats in the lower house and 16 in the Senate to secure majorities.
ChristenUnie leader Mirjam Bikker also criticised the lack of direction.
“If you want to make progress, you have to decide which way to go,” she said. “We’ve seen a few concessions on minor things like cuts to healthcare, but my concern is that without a sense of direction it’ll just be a few trinkets.”
PVV leader Geert Wilders also attacked the government, arguing that the speech failed to focus enough on concerns such as the cost of living.
”Lots of money is being spent on Europe, development aid, nitrogen and the climate, while we see the country is changing and we can’t pay the bills,” he said. ”The sooner this cabinet falls, the better.”